Dhadak 2's Ivy League Screenings Spark Caste Discourse

Dhadak 2 has achieved a significant milestone with its screening at several prestigious Ivy League universities, drawing attention for its exploration of caste politics and contemporary Indian cinema. Filmmaker Karan Johar shared his pride, highlighting the film's impact.

The movie, directed by Shazia Iqbal, features a Dalit protagonist and delves into social hierarchies within an elite law college setting. Its release on August 1, 2025, has been followed by screenings and discussions at institutions including Yale and Columbia Universities.

These academic engagements, organized by departments like Political Science and Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African Studies, position Dhadak 2 as more than just a commercial film. It is now being analyzed as a significant text for understanding structural inequality and urban caste realities in India.

Johar particularly praised director Shazia Iqbal, referring to her as the "soul" of the film and commending her for being an important voice and storyteller. The film's success in these academic circles underscores its role in bringing conversations about Dalit politics to a wider audience.